ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. — An EMT has been fired for allegedly photographing a deputy’s body at the Anderson County morgue.
MedShore Ambulance Services said the EMT took a photo of Detective Mark Garrett, who was killed in an off-duty crash on Oct. 1, WSPA reported.
Alyssa Whitfield of the Anderson County Coroner’s Office confirmed to WYFF that the EMT has been terminated.
MedShore released the following statement:
“MedShore Ambulance Service is deeply saddened by this situation. The behavior described does not reflect our values or standards of professionalism. The employee involved is no longer with the company. We remain committed to serving our community with respect and compassion. Out of respect for the family and as this matter is under review, we will not be providing further comment.”
Greg Shore, CEO of MedShore Ambulance Service, said the company was unaware the photo had been taken until the employee shared it with a coworker, which prompted an internal investigation.
The Anderson County Coroner’s Office said it is continuing to investigate the incident at the morgue.
Does your department have a policy about taking and sharing scene photos and/or photos related to incidents?
EMS1 readers respond
“It’s a HIPPA violation. I’m sure all medical companies have extensive training on HIPPA. I know everywhere I have worked you get it at onboarding and annually. That person has a problem with following guidelines, policy.”
“I am amazed one would think it should be a policy. It should be common sense, common courtesy and respect for all involved. If policies are needed for respect and common sense, y’all need to fire everyone and start over.”
